Got a Fleet? Think About Going Green – or Greener!

In local governments and many businesses throughout the state, streets are swept, deliveries made and important business conducted everyday with vehicle fleets. Operating a fleet of vehicles comes at a price, however. Beyond the monetary cost, fleet vehicles represent a significant source of air pollution. Besides contributing to smog and soot, very gallon of gasoline or diesel fuel burned releases about 22 pounds of carbon dioxide, the major pollutant causing global warming.

There are ways to curb these emissions. Some of the most popular ways to "green" your fleet include:

• “Right-sizing” by downsizing and eliminating vehicles
• Incorporating efficiency into specifications and purchasing fuel-efficient, alternative-fuel, and electric vehicles
• Using cleaner-burning renewable fuels such as biodiesel blends and ethanol
• Optimizing vehicle travel, operation, and maintenance
• Maximizing fuel efficiency by training employees on the most efficient driving techniques
• Substituting other travel modes, or reducing the need to travel

Ready to "green" your fleet? Follow the steps below...

Step One

Document the impact of fleet activities by conducting an inventory of fleet vehicles, including the types of vehicles, how many there are of each type, and the type and quantity of fuel that they use.

Step Two

Once the fleet has been characterized, realistic goals can be set and measured. Goals should be set for reducing fuel use, criteria air pollutants and carbon dioxide emissions.

Step Three

Consider which of the practical measures outlined above make the most sense for your fleet. Implemented wisely, these actions will not adversely impact the day-to-day operations of your business. In fact, many will result in significant savings.